“Smartphonatics” are changing the way we bank and play. And while smart phones are making a lot of things easier, in many contexts they are the source of gross distraction and rude behavior
Smart Spending
Consumer Overload: Why We Tune Out Info & Services That Are Supposed to Help
Who would want to ignore great deals, the chance to improve goods in the marketplace, and information that’s supposed to protect us from rip-offs and unsafe products? It turns out a lot of us would—because we’re swimming in an …
Your Summer Travel Itinerary: Paying More to Fly While Fighting the Crowds
As gas prices fall and more Americans consider a road trip rather than flying this summer, you might think that airlines would try to lure customers in with cheaper fares and an increased number of flights. Well, sorry.
Where a Nissan Leaf Costs Over $50K
Even when the national average for gas neared $4 per gallon, very few American drivers were opting for electric cars such as the Nissan Leaf, largely because of the limited mileage range (100 miles max before requiring a …
How to Get Freebies Without Giving Up Too Much Personal Information
Freebies are awesome. But giving up personal info, putting yourself at risk of identity theft, and having e-mail inboxes constantly clogged with spam? Not so awesome. There are ways, however, to snag loads of samples, perks, swag, and other promotional goodies at no cost—and with little or no risk.
Going on Vacation? Now You Can Put it on Layaway
Layaway used to be reserved for big-ticket items like televisions or leather couches. Now, you can use it for your summer vacation.
Gas Prices Under $3.50 Nationally—and Under $4 Even in California
Through early 2012, the consensus had it that gas prices would soar through summer, easily hitting $4 or higher around the country. Just the opposite trend has taken hold in the spring and early summer. This week, the national …
More Troubles for JCPenney: Top Executive Departs Amid Sales Slump
Ron Johnson was brought in as JCPenney’s new CEO last year largely due to his experiences with two of the most phenomenal success stories in retail in recent history: Target and Apple Store. What does it mean that Johnson’s …
Airlines May Have to Pay Up if They Lose Your Luggage (Even Temporarily)
A new congressional report says that airlines should consider reimbursing passengers for checked-baggage fees if their luggage is delayed. But are airlines likely to start giving money back to customers?
Car Shoppers: Better Prices Expected Down the Road
After months of rising used-car prices, drivers are getting some relief, with “previously loved” models expected to get cheaper in the near future. As for consumers in the market for a fuel-efficient new Japanese import, it looks …
Let’s Hope You’re Not Taking Real-Life Money Lessons from ‘Reality’ Shows
Guess what? Reality shows aren’t that real. This news shouldn’t come as a shock. Yet it is still surprising—and worrisome—to hear about the latest scandal involving the home-buying show “House Hunters.” Each of the program’s …
The New Math on Smartphone Plans & Providers
Soon, you’ll be able to use an iPhone for as little as $30 per month. Alternately, your iPhone could lock you into a contract that costs upwards of $140 monthly. A new lineup of shared family plans from Verizon might run far more …